Doomsday Clock set at 89 seconds to midnight amidst rising threats of nuclear war and AI
The Doomsday Clock was set to 89 seconds to midnight on January 28, 2025, the closest it has been in its 78-year history, according to the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists’ Science and Security Board (SASB).
Doomsday clock at 89 seconds. Image credit: Image credits: Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists
The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists’ Science and Security Board (SASB) set the Doomsday Clock at 89 seconds to midnight on January 28, 2025. This marks the closest it has been to midnight in its 78-year history.
The change coincides with the beginning of a new U.S. presidential term, rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), and increasing dysfunction in the global information ecosystem, undermining society’s ability to address complex challenges.
The decision is based on multiple factors. The Russia-Ukraine war has entered its third year, while conflicts in the Middle East continue to pose a risk of escalation.
Russia has suspended compliance with the New START treaty and withdrawn ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. Meanwhile, China is rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal, and the U.S. has stepped back from its traditional role as a moderating influence. According to SASB, these factors have significantly increased the risk of nuclear war.
SASB has also raised concerns about rapid advancements in AI and its integration into various sectors. In particular, the military applications of AI and the development of autonomous weapons pose significant risks.
The emergence and resurgence of diseases continue to threaten the global economy, society, and security. The off-season appearance and sustained presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), its spread to farm animals and dairy products, and confirmed human cases have raised concerns about the potential for a severe human pandemic.
The last adjustment to the Doomsday Clock occurred in 2022 when SASB set it to 90 seconds to midnight following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The clock was initially set at seven minutes to midnight when it was created by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists in 1947.
References:
1 2025 Doomsday Clock Statement – SASB – January 28, 2025
Rishav Kothari is Editor-in-Chief of The Watchers, where he runs the newsroom and covers earthquakes, volcanoes, severe weather and space weather.
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